by Chris Steele

October 15, 2006

Pain, sorrow, tragedy, and suffering come to us all; to the wealthy and the poor, to old and young alike, to those who are Christians and to those who are not. Just because we are Christians does not guarantee that we will not face difficulties in this life. Job said, “Man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble...His flesh upon him shall have pain, and his soul within him shall mourn” (Job 14:1, 22).

“Why?” seems to be one of the first questions that we say when we or a loved one suffers. We may wonder if this hardship is from God? Did He allow this? If He did, then why? Such questions are difficult to sort out sometimes. If we do not get some spiritual answers, we could become discouraged, bitter, even lose our faith, and therefore lose our soul.

God’s ideal for man was seen in the garden of Eden. He created all things good. There was no suffering, pain, loss, or tears. But, sin spoiled this wonderful paradise. Sin changed things drastically. The earth was cursed, bringing all kinds of problems for humanity.

The good news is that God’s love would not allow this to be his final word for mankind. He sent his Son who suffered and died for us, so that any one who believes and obeys could have the promise of a better life here and now, and later eternal bliss.

To help us through the rough spots, we need to learn to focus more on the future. Remember, suffering is only temporary for those who remain faithful to God's will unto the end. For Christians it will only exist here on this earth. Those who see the deeper meaning of life, and center on the things which are really important, will be those who will meet each challenge with courage. From the song, “Take new courage we cannot tell, What the morrow may bring. When the dark clouds vanish away, Then your heart truly can sing.”